How to Explain Respect

When people don't demonstrate respect for one another, communication and relationships suffer -- for this reason, you must teach respect to young people in a way that they will understand. Teaching respect requires more than explaining its core components, though. You must demonstrate respectful attitudes and behavior yourself because, if those you are teaching see an authority figure acting disrespectfully, they learn that it is acceptable to do so. When you act respectfully, you set a good example and help others understand the positive impact of respect.

Instructions

    • 1

      Set boundaries for respectful interaction. Boundaries and rules give people a concrete understanding of what respect entails. For example, you should instruct people not to interrupt each other during conversation while encouraging the use of "Please" and "Thank you."

    • 2

      Use examples to demonstrate respectful and disrespectful behavior. Don't feel pressured to invent these on your own -- use any moment throughout the day to open a discussion about respect. For example, if you're watching a television show in which people are acting disrespectfully toward one another, talk to your child about what the people did wrong or how they could improve their behavior.

    • 3

      Demonstrate respect regularly, even when your patience is tested. It is especially important that you show respect to the person you are teaching. Interrupting or talking down to your listener confuses him and teaches that disrespecting other people is acceptable.

    • 4

      Reward respect. While your children should be motivated to respect each other for reasons other than personal reward, praising your child and recognizing good behavior helps her understand the definition of respect.

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